This is a paid partnership with Studio
Before What The Dad Said and I had children one of the things we loved to do was to visit the cinema. Heading into the city to watch the latest blockbuster (are they still called blockbusters??). Fast forward to having children and we rarely go to the cinema as a couple. With blockbusters replaced by the latest family films.
Visiting the cinema, especially as a family can be quite expensive. Especially when you factor in travel costs, parking, cinema tickets and any sweet treats. A great way to counteract this is by hosting family film nights. Something that can be easy to arrange with some of the same fun and treats of visiting the cinema.
Setting the scene
With the darker nights beginning to draw in Autumn lends a helping hand in the darkroom feeling that you’re looking for. Drawing the curtains to block out any remaining sunlight and a possible reshuffle of the sofas and chairs may be in order to ensure that everyone has a good view of the TV. Add in some plumped up cushions and snuggly throws so that everyone is comfortable and cosy throughout the film.
Keeping hydrated
Hydration is always important but when it comes to watching a film do you fancy something hot? or something cold? With the cooler evenings, hot chocolate is the obvious answer. Selecting your favourite colour from the rainbow stacking mugs. Before filling with hot chocolate and a handful of mini marshmallows. Squeezing in a swirl of squirty cream and maybe a biscuit twirl if you are looking to add in that extra touch of coffee shop chic.
Despite the weather, there is something about enjoying a Slush Puppie drink whilst watching a film. With the addition of a Slush Puppie machine at home, it’s so simple to make your own which you can enjoy all year round – who said Slush Puppies were just for the summer?
Sweet treats
The classic cinema treat is popcorn, which can easily be recreated at home with the aid of a popcorn maker. Which allows you to experiment with different flavours so you’re not limited to salty or sweet popcorn. Something that you won’t find in the cinema but works well for family film nights are ‘cake in a mug’. Offering you the sweet treat that you crave whilst warming you up from the inside. Quick and easy to make and you can even cheat by utilising a store-bought mix too.
- Malteaser Mug Cake in a Mug
- Super-easy funfetti mug cake
What are we watching
Thanks to streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime it should be easy to find a film to enjoy. Although sometimes there is too much choice and therefore we have trouble deciding on what to watch. Occasionally we will purchase a new release to download via Sky or at the supermarket. As this still works out cheaper than visiting the cinema.
Just a few of the ways in which we prepare for family film nights. We try to do this a couple of times a month, in and around work shifts and the children’s activities. They are a great way to be together as a family, reconnecting after the hustle and bustle of daily family life.
No Comments